Storm-like conditions still expected as Rafael moves away from Jamaica

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KINGSTON, Jamaica — The centre of Tropical Storm Rafael has begun to move away from the western coast of Jamaica but strong gusty winds and heavy rainfall are still expected across the island on Tuesday.

This is according to the latest update from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica (Met Service).

It said a tropical storm warning remains in effect for the island.

At 7:00 am the centre of Tropical Storm Rafael was located about 130 kilometres (80 miles) south-southwest of Montego Bay, and 180 kilometres (110 miles) south of Negril Point, Jamaica.

Rafael continues to move toward the northwest near 20 km/h (13 mph) and a generally northwestward motion is anticipated over the next few days, the weather body said.

On the forecast track, the storm is expected to begin moving away from Jamaica Tuesday morning, be near the Cayman Islands Tuesday tonight, and be near or over western Cuba on Wednesday.

Maximum sustained winds remain near 95 km/h (60 mph) with higher gusts. Steady to rapid intensification is forecast over the next 24 to 36 hours, making Rafael a hurricane near the Cayman Islands, with further strengthening before it makes landfall in Cuba. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 165 kilometres (105 miles) from the centre.

In the meantime, the Met Service said rainfall amounts of over 75 millimetres (three inches), are being reported across Jamaica, primarily in sections of southern parishes, resulting in a few flooding events. Based on the current forecast track, these are expected to increase during the morning.

It advised Jamaicans to expect periods of heavy rainfall measuring 75-150 mm (three-six inches), to continue to spread across Jamaica, producing flash flooding in flood-prone areas island-wide. Higher amounts are likely in higher elevations and landslides should also be anticipated in vulnerable sections of the island. Strong, gusty winds are also expected to continue, mainly in thunderstorms and squalls, as Rafael gradually moves away.

Small craft operators are reminded to remain in safe harbour until all warning messages have been lifted and wind and sea conditions have returned to normal, the Met Service said.

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